Is Fairport Safe, Pros and cons of living in Fairport

Fairport, New York, nestled along the historic Erie Canal, presents itself as a charming village with a strong sense of community. Often referred to as the “crown jewel of the Erie Canal,” Fairport offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the larger metropolitan area of Rochester. This community is known for its well-regarded school system and a generally desirable living environment.

The village boasts a stable population, with recent data indicating approximately 5,403 residents. Fairport is characterized by a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of residents born outside the country. The median age in Fairport is around 45.5 years, suggesting a community with a significant number of established households and a mature demographic. Many residents own their homes, reflecting a stable and invested community.

Is it Safe to Live in Fairport?

Fairport generally offers a safe living environment, with crime rates that are typically considered manageable within the context of suburban communities. While specific crime statistics can fluctuate, the overall perception and data suggest a lower incidence of serious crime compared to national averages.

The village’s commitment to community well-being is a contributing factor to its safety. Low unemployment rates and a stable job market further support a secure atmosphere. Residents can feel confident in the safety of their neighborhoods, with community vigilance and local law enforcement playing key roles in maintaining peace.

Housing Costs and Availability

Home Prices

The real estate market in Fairport presents a mixed picture regarding current prices and recent trends. As of early 2026, the median home value in Fairport was reported to be around $396,821 (as reported by Zillow). This figure has seen an increase of 4.2% over the preceding year (as reported by Zillow).

However, other reports indicate a different trend, with Fairport home prices down 18.0% in March 2026 compared to the previous year, selling for a median price of $371,000 (as reported by Redfin). This suggests a dynamic market with varying data points depending on the source and specific time frame. The median listing price in Fairport has been noted at $399.9K (as reported by Fairport, NY Housing Market & Rental trends). Homes in Fairport have historically appreciated at a strong rate, with a 10-year cumulative appreciation rate of 109.39% (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).

Rental Market

The rental market in Fairport shows a range of prices, with a general trend of moderate to high costs, often exceeding national averages. As of May 2026, the average rent in Fairport was approximately $2,195 per month (as reported by Zillow). This figure represents a decrease of $180 from the previous month but an increase of $45 year-over-year.

More specific data from May 2026 indicates an average rent of $1,547 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (as reported by Apartments.com). For a two-bedroom apartment, the average rent is around $2,034 per month (as reported by Zillow). Another source places the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment at $1,408 and for a two-bedroom at $1,915 in 2026 (as reported by Rent.). These figures suggest that rental costs in Fairport are a significant consideration for prospective residents.

Cost of Living and Economic Landscape

Cost of Living Index

Fairport’s cost of living is generally higher than the national average, though it is less expensive than many other areas within New York State. The overall cost of living index in Fairport is approximately 9% higher than the national average (as reported by Area Vibes). This figure is influenced by various expense categories, with housing being a notable factor.

Within New York, Fairport is considered 17% less expensive than the average city in the state (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This suggests a nuanced economic environment where local costs are moderated by broader state trends. The cost of living is estimated to be around $2583 per month for singles and $5689 per month for families of four in 2026 (as reported by Salary.com).

Salaries and Employment

The economic landscape of Fairport is supported by a stable job market and a respectable median household income. The median household income in Fairport was reported as $107,009 in 2024 (as reported by Data USA). This income level is considerably higher than the national median, indicating a community with a strong earning potential.

The unemployment rate in Fairport is notably low, standing at 1.8% (as reported by Point2Homes) and 1.1% (as reported by Niche). This low unemployment rate suggests a healthy job market with ample opportunities for residents. The average commute time for residents is around 20.6 minutes, with most individuals driving alone to work (as reported by Data USA).

Climate and Environment

Temperatures and Weather Patterns

Fairport experiences a distinct four-season climate, typical of its northeastern location. Summers are generally warm and partly cloudy, while winters are cold, snowy, and often windy (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The temperature typically ranges from 18°F to 81°F throughout the year, with extreme temperatures rarely falling below 3°F or exceeding 89°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

The warmest month is July, with average high temperatures around 80°F and lows of 63°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Conversely, January is the coldest month, with average highs of 32°F and lows of 20°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The area receives a moderate amount of precipitation, with an average of 37 inches annually (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

Rainfall and Snowfall

Fairport experiences seasonal precipitation, with July typically having the most wet days, averaging 10.4 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The driest period occurs from November to March, with February having the fewest wet days, averaging 5.0 days (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

Snowfall is a significant feature of Fairport’s winters, with an average annual snowfall of approximately 83 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). January is usually the snowiest month, often receiving over 22 inches of snow (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The wind can be a factor, particularly from November to April, with average wind speeds reaching up to 7.7 miles per hour (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

Education and Demographics

School District Performance

The Fairport Central School District is highly regarded, consistently ranking among the top school districts in New York State. All schools within the district rank in the top 50% of their respective types in New York (as reported by SchoolDigger.com). The district invests significantly in its educational offerings, with per-student spending well above the state average.

Fairport Senior High School, in particular, is a top-performing institution, demonstrating high proficiency rates on state exams, with over 90% proficiency in subjects like Algebra II and English Language Arts (as reported by SchoolDigger.com). The student-teacher ratio across the district is favorable, contributing to a supportive learning environment.

Population and Diversity

Fairport is home to a population of approximately 5,403 residents, with a projected population of 5,425 in 2026 (as reported by Data USA and Census Reporter). The village is predominantly white, making up about 92% of the population, with smaller percentages for other racial and ethnic groups (as reported by Point2Homes and Census Reporter). A small fraction of residents, around 4.2%, were born outside the United States (as reported by Data USA).

The demographic makeup indicates a stable and long-established community. The median age of 45.5 years (as reported by Census Reporter) suggests a population that is largely settled, with a significant portion of residents in their middle to older years. The homeownership rate in Fairport is 67.6%, which is higher than the national average (as reported by Data USA).

Major Employers and Job Market

Key Industries and Companies

Fairport’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers, though specific major employers are not consistently detailed across all available data. However, the village’s proximity to Rochester provides residents with access to a broader job market that includes significant sectors such as healthcare, education, technology, and manufacturing.

Within Fairport itself, a large percentage of the working population, 88.5%, is employed in professional or administrative positions (as reported by Point2Homes). This indicates a workforce engaged in white-collar professions, contributing to the community’s economic stability.

Unemployment and Workforce

The unemployment rate in Fairport is remarkably low, reported at 1.8% (as reported by Point2Homes) and 1.1% (as reported by Niche). This low rate signifies a robust job market where most residents who are seeking employment are able to find it. The workforce is characterized by a high level of employment in skilled professions.

The average household income in Fairport is also notably high, with a median of $107,009 (as reported by Data USA). This strong income level, combined with low unemployment, points to a financially stable community with good employment opportunities.

Pros and Cons of Living in Fairport

Advantages of Fairport Living

Fairport offers a high quality of life, characterized by its excellent school district and a safe, family-friendly environment. The village’s charming atmosphere, coupled with its location along the Erie Canal, provides a picturesque setting. The low unemployment rate and strong median household income contribute to economic stability and resident prosperity.

Residents benefit from a classic four-season climate, though winters can be harsh. The community’s median age suggests a stable population, and the high homeownership rate indicates a settled and invested populace. Access to amenities and proximity to Rochester further enhance its appeal.

Considerations for Potential Residents

While Fairport offers many advantages, potential residents should be aware of certain factors. The cost of living, particularly housing, is higher than the national average, which could be a barrier for some. The cold and snowy winters, with significant snowfall, may not appeal to everyone.

Rental prices can also be substantial, often exceeding national averages. While the community is predominantly white, those seeking greater ethnic diversity might find other areas more suitable. Despite these considerations, Fairport remains a desirable location for many seeking a well-rounded suburban experience.